The Government has decided that the Irish Coast Guard is to remain within the Department of Transport, contrary to the recommendations made in the Report of the Commission on Defence Forces.

The report, developed over 13 months, includes recommendations on the structures and staffing of both the permanent and reserve Defence Forces in the immediate future, and beyond 2030.

It was recommended that staff employed by the coast guard be re-located under the bracket of the Department of Defence. Fórsa assistant general secretary Pat Ennis said a move to the Department of Defence would have been beneficial in certain instances, but added that the proposed move would have also had its own challenges.

He added: “The Government has made the decision for our workers to remain as part of the Department of Transport.

“Although there may have been benefits for members in some of the recommendations, a move to the Department of Defence might have changed the working terms and conditions and career path for our members.”

As a result, Fórsa will re-engage with the Government in the coming months to ensure the best result can be found for its members.

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